When Hurricane Matthew struck Haiti in 2016, it left entire communities in the Port-Salut region facing severe disruption, particularly in access to clean water and sanitation. In the immediate aftermath of the disaster, time was critical. Rapid action was needed to prevent further hardship and protect public health.

Thanks to swift cross-border coordination, emergency WASH support was rapidly deployed from the Dominican Republic. Spare parts, essential equipment, and a wide range of technical materials were mobilized and delivered to affected areas, enabling the quick repair and installation of water and sanitation systems. This logistical lifeline played a decisive role in restoring access to safe water and basic hygiene services for communities already struggling with the consequences of the hurricane.

This emergency response was part of the Swiss Humanitarian Aid intervention in 2016, demonstrating the importance of preparedness, regional cooperation, and rapid deployment capacity in humanitarian crises. By ensuring that critical WASH infrastructure could be put in place without delay, the operation helped reduce health risks and supported communities in the first, most fragile phase of recovery.

Beyond the materials delivered, the response reflected a strong commitment to solidarity and effective humanitarian action—showing how timely support, even across borders, can make a meaningful difference for populations affected by natural disasters.